Thanksgiving Quesadillas are a delightful way to transform your holiday leftovers into a mouthwatering meal. These quesadillas combine the flavors of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a perfectly grilled tortilla. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy evening with family or serving them at a casual gathering, these quesadillas are sure to impress. The balance of savory and sweet makes them stand out, while the creamy dipping sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for using up leftovers in just 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry creates a unique taste.
• Versatile Dish: Great for lunch, dinner, or even as party appetizers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cheesy quesadillas; this version is no exception.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or toppings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Thanksgiving Quesadillas, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures easy cooking and flipping without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula: Helps in flipping and serving quesadillas with ease.

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Ingredients

To create these delicious Thanksgiving Quesadillas, gather the following ingredients:

Cheese Mixture

• 1 8-ounce package Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped small (or half that of dried sage)

Tortilla Filling

• 4 10-inch flour tortillas
• 1 pound leftover turkey, white or dark or both
• 12 ounces leftover stuffing
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce

Dipping Sauce

• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 4 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped small (or half that of dried sage)

How to Make Thanksgiving Quesadillas

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, mix together the Monterey Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and fresh sage until well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Quesadillas

Divide the cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla’s surface. On one half of each tortilla, pile high with leftover turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Fold the opposite side over to create a half-moon shape.

Step 3: Make the Dipping Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the remaining mayonnaise with whole berry cranberry sauce and sage. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Quesadillas

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place two folded quesadillas in the skillet. Cook for about one to two minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Repeat this step for the remaining quesadillas.

Step 5: Serve

Cut each quesadilla in half for easy serving. Enjoy them hot alongside your creamy dipping sauce!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Quesadillas

Thanksgiving Quesadillas are a wonderful addition to any festive gathering. They can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a delightful appetizer. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your quesadilla experience.

With Fresh Salsa

• Pair your quesadillas with a vibrant fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing kick.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the quesadillas on a bed of mixed greens drizzled with vinaigrette. This adds a lightness that complements the richness of the filling.

Accompanied by Guacamole

• A side of creamy guacamole enhances the flavor and adds a smooth texture contrast to the crispy quesadillas.

With Sour Cream

• Offer sour cream on the side for dipping. Its tanginess balances the savory taste of the quesadillas perfectly.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add some extra melted Monterey Jack cheese on top just before serving for an indulgent touch that cheese lovers will appreciate.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Quesadillas

To make your Thanksgiving Quesadillas truly shine, consider these simple tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh turkey and homemade stuffing when possible. Freshness enhances flavor.

• Grill to Perfection: Cook on medium heat to achieve golden-brown tortillas without burning them. This ensures a crispy exterior.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack works great, try mixing in other cheeses like cheddar for added depth of flavor.

• Let Filling Cool: Allow leftover turkey and stuffing to cool slightly before assembling. This prevents soggy tortillas.

• Customize Your Dip: Feel free to add spices or herbs to your mayonnaise dip for a unique twist that complements your quesadillas.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Quesadillas

Pairing side dishes with your Thanksgiving Quesadillas can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings color and health benefits to your plate.
2. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the quesadillas.
3. Corn Salad – A fresh corn salad with avocado and lime provides brightness and balances the richness of the dish.
4. Spicy Black Beans – Serve warm black beans seasoned with spices as a hearty complement that adds protein and flavor.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw dressed lightly adds freshness and texture, making it an excellent counterpoint to cheesy quesadillas.
6. Crispy Tortilla Chips – Offer tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole for an easy snack option that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Thanksgiving Quesadillas can be fun, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly Overstuffing: It might be tempting to add too much filling, but this can lead to messy quesadillas that don’t cook evenly. Stick to a balanced amount of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce for the best results.

• Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese may result in quesadillas that lack flavor and texture. Opt for fresh Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy melt that enhances your quesadilla.

• Neglecting the Heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the tortillas before the inside is heated through. Cook over medium heat to achieve a golden brown exterior while ensuring everything is warmed properly.

• Forgetting the Dip: The dip adds a delightful touch to your Thanksgiving Quesadillas. Don’t skip it! Whip up a simple mix of mayonnaise and sage for an extra layer of flavor.

• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the taste significantly. If you don’t have fresh sage, consider using other herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance your quesadillas.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Thanksgiving Quesadillas in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thanksgiving Quesadillas

• Wrap each quesadilla tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Quesadillas

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Thanksgiving Quesadillas.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?

Yes! You can substitute leftover chicken or beef if you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked and seasoned well.

How do I make my own stuffing?

You can make stuffing by sautéing onions, celery, and herbs in broth-soaked bread cubes. Customize it with nuts or dried fruits for added flavor!

What are some good sides for Thanksgiving Quesadillas?

Consider serving them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A side of guacamole would also pair nicely.

Can I customize my Thanksgiving Quesadillas?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different cheeses, veggies, or spices based on your taste preferences.

How long do these quesadillas take to prepare?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking. It’s perfect for quick meals!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Quesadillas are a delightful way to use leftovers creatively while still enjoying festive flavors. They are versatile and easy to customize according to your palates, such as adding different meats or spices. Try making these cheesy treats next time; they’re sure to become a family favorite!

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Thanksgiving Quesadillas

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (4 quesadillas) 1x

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Description

Thanksgiving Quesadillas offer a delicious way to repurpose your holiday leftovers while delivering a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. These cheesy delights are filled with succulent turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce, all encased in perfectly grilled tortillas. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for your next gathering, these quesadillas deliver on taste and convenience. With a creamy dipping sauce that complements the flavorful filling, they are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 4 10-inch flour tortillas
• 1 pound leftover turkey
• 12 ounces leftover stuffing
• ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the Monterey Jack cheese, mayonnaise, and fresh sage until blended.
2. Spread the cheese mixture over half of each tortilla. On top, layer leftover turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce before folding the tortilla.
3. Combine remaining mayonnaise with whole berry cranberry sauce and sage in another bowl to create the dipping sauce.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook two folded quesadillas for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Repeat with remaining quesadillas.
5. Serve hot, sliced in half, alongside the creamy dipping sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 quesadilla (130g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Feel free to swap out turkey for chicken or beef based on what you have on hand. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for added flavor depth. Consider adding fresh vegetables or herbs to elevate your quesadilla experience.